Hero: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone admired for bravery, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. Commonly found in stories, myths, or real-life scenarios where someone performs extraordinary feats.

• He became a hero by saving the children from the burning building

Often refers to a person who has defeated all rivals in a competition, someone who supports a cause or defends someone else. It is frequently used in sports and contests.

• She is the reigning champion in the national chess tournament

Mainly used in literature, film, and storytelling to describe the central character or leading figure in a narrative. The focus is more on the role they play in the story rather than their moral qualities.

• The protagonist of the novel faced numerous challenges before finding happiness

Describes someone who rescues others from danger, difficulty, or harm. Often has religious or spiritual connotations, but can also be used in general contexts.

• The doctor was seen as the savior of the town after stopping the epidemic

Used to describe someone who is admired for their courage or outstanding achievements. Often used in stories, media, and to refer to individuals who have performed significant acts of bravery.

• The firefighter was hailed as a hero for saving the family from the burning building

Describes someone who shows courage in difficult or dangerous situations. This term is often used in everyday conversation and can apply to both small acts of bravery and significant ones.

• She's a brave person for standing up to the bully in school

Used to describe someone who others look up to and try to emulate, often in terms of behavior, values, and success. Commonly used in educational or developmental contexts.

• She is a role model for young girls aspiring to enter the engineering field

Refers to someone who is highly admired and looked up to, often used in the context of fan culture and celebrities. It can have a broader application to anyone who inspires great admiration.

• The young musician looked up to her as an idol

Used to describe someone admired for bravery, achievements, or noble qualities. Commonly seen in stories, real-life scenarios, and discussions about overcoming challenges.

• The firefighter was hailed as a hero for rescuing the children from the burning building.
• In the book, the hero battles against evil forces to save the kingdom.

Used to describe well-known characters from folklore, myths, or historical tales whose deeds have been exaggerated over time.

• King Arthur is a legendary figure known for his knights and the quest for the Holy Grail.
• Robin Hood is a legendary figure who, according to tales, stole from the rich to give to the poor.

Refers to characters from myths, typically ancient stories that explain natural phenomena, cultural traditions, or beliefs. These characters often have supernatural qualities or partake in fantastic adventures.

• Zeus is a prominent mythological character in Greek mythology, known as the king of the gods.
• The Minotaur is a mythological character that lived in a labyrinth and was eventually defeated by Theseus.

Refers to a god or deity, a supernatural figure with divine attributes. Typically mentioned in religious or spiritual contexts.

• In many cultures, the sun is worshipped as a divine being.
• The ancient Greeks believed in multiple divine beings, each governing different aspects of the world.